This is why you should always use strict and lexical variables (aka my $x).

You'll notice that my habit of using strict is what caught the error in the first place. :-)

(As for lexicals, I plead PHP brain damage.)

Update: Given the choice, I wouldn't be using PHP, but the Powers That Pay My Salary "asked" me to.

Far from the worst language I've ever dealt with, but IMO that's damnation by faint praise.

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:wq